Evergreen Park Releases Schedule for 'A Dickens Christmas'

EVERGREEN PARK, IL -- Step into the 19th century and welcome the holiday season at Evergreen Park’s annual "A Dickens Christmas," from 2 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in Klein (Circle) Park at 97th Street and Homan Avenue. The festive holiday celebration is FREE.

Nothing personifies Christmas more than Charles Dickens to get people into the holiday mood and build up little ones' excitement for the big day. There will be train rides, LIVE reindeer, trolley rides, those Funny Little People, face painting, cookie decorating and much, much more. Enjoy hot cocoa while listening to the songs of the season by strolling choral singers. That Jolly Old Elf -- Santa -- is also expected to drop by and listen to children's wishes.

Unfortunately, the horse drawn wagon rides will not be at the community celebration this year. A windstorm destroyed the wagon -- but the horses are OK. The village was lucky enough to line up the Holly Trolley. Stick around for Mayor Jim Sexon'ts Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. The event is free and visitors can get warm in the community center where some activities will be held.

See what's in store at Evergreen Park's "A Dickens Christmas" this Saturday, Dec. 2:

• 2-5 p.m. - Santa visits gazebo.
• 230-3 p.m. - EPCHS Madrigals perform next to gazebo.
• 2-5 p.m. - Face painting in smaller white tent.
• 2 p.m. until gone - Cookie decorating and cocoa in white tent.
• 2-5 p.m. Barraco's selling pizza outside; various crafters in auditorium;
• 2-6 p.m. - Holly Trolley rides around the park.
• 3-3:30 p.m. - Most Holy Redeemer Choir performs next to gazebo.
• 3-5 p.m. - Santa's reindeer land for a visit outside.
• 3-5 p.m. (or until gone) - OCS selling hotdogs to benefit Village Pantry, in the auditorium.
• 3-6 p.m. - Polar Express train rides for the kiddos.
• 5-5:30 p.m. - Those Funny Little People perform outside.
• 5:30-6 p.m. - Queen of Martyrs Choir performs next to gazebo.
• 6-6:30 p.m. - Mother McAuley Choir performs at tree lighting.
• 6 p.m. - Mayor Jim Sexton's annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony benefitting Village Pantry and Healthier Evergreen Park.

Patch File Photo | Renita Young